Here is an article by Jeffrey Strain about 6 simple ways to save yourself thousands of dollars! It is just one part of a larger series; however, I found it to be the most important segment.

Overall, I found it to be excellent and all 6 “moves” to be great ways to save money. Even though they are all pretty simple ideas, don’t discount their effectiveness.

6 Moves

1. Get organized: I have been doing this myself the last few years. It has been an ongoing process, but I finally feel like I am getting to where I want to be.

You might wonder how this will save you money? The answer is simple: the less “crap” you have the less house you can live in. Small housing is cheaper in rent and utilities which equals to hundreds in saving.

Just a few years ago, I could have never fit all of my stuff in my 395 square foot apartment. However, lately I have really worked on divesting myself of stuff I didn’t need. Now, not only do can I fit in a sub-compact space, but I have room to spare!

2. Start a part-time business: For many, home businesses often lead to full-time careers. The author himself started writing as a side gig, and now that is how he makes his living.

Opportunities are everywhere. I suggest you assess your personal skills (as well as your passions), if you are interested in starting a side business. Once you have an idea where your heart is, you can start focusing on how to monetize your hobbies.

As you know, I blog as one of my pseudo side-businesses. I knew I liked personal finance and making money, but for years I just read what others had say instead of posting my own ideas. Eventually, however, I decided it was time to turn my interest into an income generator. Whether or not I sink or swim in this venture, I know I’ll feel good about it, since at least I tried. Nothing feels worse than wondering what might have been?

3. Anticipate big purchases: This cannot be repeated enough! Simply put, time allows you to search out the best bargain, whereas waiting for something to finally die usually doesn’t leave you with that luxury.

For example, if I were to replace a major appliance. I would personally try to wait till Black Friday to find the best deal. Alternatively, I might just wait till I find a “going-out-of-business” or other clearance sale. Even just waiting for Bing.com cashback to hit its high point would likely result in significant saving.

4. Take a tax class: I have never done this; however, I have always reread the tax rules when doing my own taxes. Having knowledge of all the available credits and deductions for which you qualify can easily save you thousands!

Don’t think you already know what credits are available to you. Tax rules change, as well as life situations. If you get comfortable in a tax routine and fail to keep yourself educated, you will likely miss out on huge saving as your circumstances evolve.

5. Drop a habit: I know what you’re thinking: “but I don’t drink or smoke?” “How can possibly save from this tip?”

The author makes a good point that it’s not only the deadly habits that cost us money. He was able to wean himself of a soda/sports drink habit that cost him $1,000/year. That’s right; he put an extra $1,000 in his pocket by just switching to tap water!

6. Trash your TV: The article notes that the average American watches 30 hours of TV every week! Not only is that spending money on cable, energy, and equipment, but more importantly, it is wasting time that could be spent on developing skills or working a side gig. Over the years, I have noticed that most of the broke/indebted people I know watch an excessive amount of television.

Final thoughts:

Without a doubt, I think this is one of the most important articles I have come across in awhile. The author has done a wonderful job of finding easy ways to really turn around a personal financial situation.

Everyone is probably guilty of a few of these, including myself. The goal here is not to be perfect. We are only human remember.

In place of seeking immediate perfection, set a plan to meet your own goals and work towards them one step at a time. For example, instead of drinking 10 sodas/week, cut back to 6 at first. Instead of watching TV 5 hours every night, settle for 2. Not only will your wallet become fatter, but you also likely start living a more fulfilling life.